Get Tested for Colorectal Cancer

The Basics

The Basics: Overview

If you are age 50 to 75, get tested regularly for colorectal (“koh-loh-REK-tul”) cancer. A special test (called a screening) can help prevent colorectal cancer or find it early, when it’s easier to treat.

You may need to get tested before age 50 or after age 75 if colorectal cancer runs in your family. Talk with your doctor and ask about your risk for colorectal cancer.

How often should I get screened?How often you need to get screened will depend on:

Your risk for colorectal cancer

Which screening test you choose

How do I decide which test to take?

There are different ways to test for colorectal cancer. Your doctor can help you decide which test you would prefer.

The Basics: What to Expect

What are the different kinds of tests?

Several different kinds of tests can be used to screen for colorectal cancer. The main types are:

Stool-based tests

Tests that look directly inside the colon and rectum

Stool tests are done at home. You collect a stool (poop) sample and return it to your doctor.

Tests that look directly at your colon and rectum – like a colonoscopy – are done in a doctor's office or hospital. For these tests, you need to take a laxative to clean out your bowels before the appointment. Then, you'll get anesthesia just before the test.

Does it hurt to get a colonoscopy?

Some people find preparing for a colonoscopy to be unpleasant, but most people agree that the benefits to their health outweigh any discomfort. And getting anesthesia means you won’t have any pain during the test.

Talk with your doctor about getting screened.

What about cost?

Under the Affordable Care Act, the health care reform law passed in 2010, most insurance plans must cover screening for colorectal cancer. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be able to get screened at no cost to you.

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Thursday, March 21, 2019